Novak Djokovic has won over Roger Federer for two straight years in a row in the BNP Paribas Open final at Indian Wells.
BBC.com reported that the Serb's win on Sunday, March 22, provided him with his fourth Indian Wells title. He is now tied with Federer for the most men's title at the venue.
Djokovic started strong in the opening set but world No. 2 Federer took back the second set. However, the 27-year-old regained his momentum and composure to win the 50th title of his career. Djokovic had the first break-point opportunity in the fourth match but Federer was able to overcome the situation. The Serb followed with 40-0 while Federer served. Despite the Swiss saving the three break points, Djokovic created another opportunity and sealed his win with an angled passing shot.
ESPN reported that Federer made several mistakes during important moments, leading to 43 unforced errors. Djokovic had 35 unforced errors. Djokovic connected 63 percent of his first serves. Federer's serving did not provide him with the advantage he needed. Federer's serve was good for him during the initial stages of the tournament but Djokovic was able to respond late in their match.
Djokovic was obviously irritated with the crowd and Federer at certain points of the game, which showed in his play and the Swiss took advantage of. When he did vent out his frustrations, he managed to play better.
Djokovic said in the same ESPN report, "I am at the prime of my career," Djokovic said. "I'm going to try to use every part of this fact to stay where I am and to fight for as many major titles as possible."
"I felt huge relief, to be honest," Djokovic said. "I saw I'm not the only one that is double-faulting under pressure. I got myself in a position to break and then he handed me that break. I thought I deserved it in a way because I really fought hard for it."
Federer said in a report by Yahoo! Sports, "I have beat him the last couple times. It is not like I lost 10 in a row," Federer said. "A lot depends on how well he serves and returns. We usually play in finals so we are both peaking at the same time."
He added, "My best spell was midway through the second to midway through the third set. It was disappointing to let it slip away."